Perfusion

Antidysrhythmics-control the rhythm of the heart. 5 classes of antiarrhythmic drugs I-V. Each class works
differently, but the results of a normal rhythm leads to improved cardiac output and improved
perfusion.
Examples include:

 Class I: sodium channel blockers: quinidine

 Class II: beta-blockers: propranolol
 Class III: potassium channel blockers: amiodarone
 Class IV: calcium channel blockers: diltiazem
 Class V: adenosine, digoxin

Anticoagulants-disrupt the coagulation cascade and suppress the production of fibrin

Examples include: heparin, warfarin

Antiplatelet: These agents decrease platelet aggregation and decrease the risk of thrombus formation in
coronary arteries.
Examples include: aspirin (ASA), dipyridamole

Lipid-Lowering Agents- used in conjunction with diet and exercise to reduce blood lipids to reduce the
morbidity and mortality of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Improved vascular health leads to
improved circulation and perfusion
Examples include: lovastatin, atorvastatin, niacin

Thrombolytics-work to directly or indirectly convert plasminogen to plasmin, an enzyme that act to

digest the fibrin matrix of clots. Dissolve existing thrombi (clots) rather than prevent them from
occurring. Used to treat acute MI, pulmonary embolism, thrombotic strokes, and DVT. When circulation
is restored, perfusion to the tissue is restored.
Examples include: alteplase, streptokinase, activase

Vasodilators-vasodilators differ with respect to the types of vessels they affect. Some agents produce
selective dilation of arterioles, while others produce selective dilation of veins. Still others dilate
everything. Selectivity determines hemodynamic effects –does it affect cardiac afterload-the force the
heart works against, or preload - the amount of stretch in the ventricular muscle before contraction?
Vasodilators are used in hypertension, angina, heart failure, and MI. By control these and other
exemplars there will be improved perfusion to the cells.
Examples include: hydralazine, minoxidil, nitroprusside, nitroglycerin, captopril

Vasopressors/vasoconstrictors-used in shock, heart failure, , acute renal failure. The drugs listed are
given IV with continuous monitoring of VS, cardiac status, and other data. Improves renal and cardiac
perfusion and output. Increases blood pressure.
Examples include: dopamine, dobutamine

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